Doctor denies conducting sexual health tests for Mohamed al-Fayed: Investigation Update
A doctor named Dr. Ann Coxon has denied allegations that she conducted sexual health tests on Harrods staff on behalf of Mohamed al-Fayed, the billionaire owner of the department store. Victims in a BBC investigation claimed that Dr. Coxon was one of the individuals who allegedly carried out “intrusive” gynaecological examinations, including STI tests, at the request of Fayed. When approached by reporters outside her home in Notting Hill, Dr. Coxon denied the accusations, stating, “No, I did not” when asked if she had carried out sexual health tests on Harrods employees. She also refused to comment further on the matter, stating, “I have no comment to make.”
Investigation and Allegations
The allegations of sexual abuse against Mohamed al-Fayed have sparked a wider investigation by the Metropolitan Police, who have revealed that they have received a total of 19 allegations against Fayed, including rape and sexual assault. However, none of these allegations have resulted in charges being brought against him. The offences are said to have taken place between 1979 and 2013 against 19 separate women, with the crimes being reported to the police between 2005 and 2023. The Met has approached the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) multiple times regarding the allegations, but charges have not been filed.
Impact and Response
The allegations against Mohamed al-Fayed have had a profound impact on the victims who have come forward with their stories. The BBC investigation, “Al Fayed – Predator at Harrods,” revealed the true scale of the abuse suffered by female employees at the hands of the billionaire tycoon. Many victims have described Fayed as a “monster” and a “sexual predator” who created a culture of fear within the workplace. The managing director of Harrods has issued a public apology for failing to protect employees who say they were sexually assaulted.
Legal and Medical Response
In response to the allegations, the General Medical Council (GMC) has stated that they are deeply concerned about the allegations of medical staff being involved in the abuse. Dr. Ann Coxon, who is still registered to practice with the GMC, has been approached for comment on the matter. The GMC has emphasized that they will thoroughly examine any potential fitness to practice concerns regarding individual doctors and take appropriate action if necessary. Another doctor accused of conducting sexual health tests, Wendy Snell, has since passed away, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation.
The Metropolitan Police has vowed to fully explore any new allegations that may arise and to review all existing allegations to determine if any criminal charges can be pursued in connection with the Fayed case. The police have also indicated that they have received new allegations from individuals who had not previously come forward, although the exact number has not been confirmed. The investigation into Mohamed al-Fayed and the allegations of sexual abuse is ongoing, with authorities committed to seeking justice for the victims.
